| Affiliations: | DeBakey Executive Research Leadership Program |
| Project Leader: | Ashrant Aryal, Ph.D. ashrantaryal@tamu.edu Construction Science |
|
Meeting Times:
|
F 1:00pm-2:00pm |
|
Team Size:
|
4
|
| Open Spots: | 0 |
|
Special Opportunities:
|
The students will be considered for co-authorship on publications depending on the level of contribution. They will also be considered for becoming a full member of the research group depending on performance.
|
|
Team Needs:
|
Programming skills in Python is required. Experience with Arduino or C++ is preferred. Please include your CV when reaching out to Dr. Aryal. |
|
Description:
|
Personalized Comfort Systems (PCS) such as fans, heaters, heating and cooling chairs, personal ventilation terminals, etc. have shown to improve occupant satisfaction by providing local control of the thermal environment. PCS devices extend the range of comfortable temperatures and enable the HVAC systems to be operated at a wider temperature range, which might lead to overall energy savings. However, the comfort and energy-saving potential of PCS devices have not been well understood. This project aims to understand the comfort and energy consequences of using PCS devices to extend HVAC temperature setpoints in office buildings in different climates. The results are expected to improve our understanding of how occupant-centric control of the thermal environment using PCS devices might improve occupant satisfaction and reduce the energy consumption of office buildings in different climates. For Spring 2022, this project will focus on developing hardware prototypes that enable automatic control of PCS. Developing the prototype will involve programming Arduino and Raspberry pi to collect data from a variety of sensors, and actuating smart plugs/switches to control PCS devices. |